The Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) and Naypyitaw, whose armies are still at war against each other, have yet to reach agreement after two days of parley in China’s Ruili since 7 March, according to KIO sources.
The government negotiating team’s 3 phase roadmap: Ceasefire, Development and Political Dialogue was countered by the KIO’s own 3 phase proposal: Confidence Building, Political Dialogue and Implementation of agreement (s), according to Joint General Secretary La Nan.
The KIO’s first phase “Confidence Building” includes withdrawal of Burma Army units attacking Kachin Independence Army (KIA) positions from the front. This proposal has yet to be accepted by Naypyitaw negotiators.
“Only withdrawal of troops can bolster confidence,” he said. “Confidence in turn will engender Political Dialogue.”
The two sides are meeting for the 5th time. The KIO/KIA remains the only major armed movement yet to reach an agreement. Naypyitaw has already concluded ceasefire pacts with 10 other groups, including the Karen National Union (KNU) and the Shan State Army (SSA)
